With a state that’s got more coastline than California (it’s true and it’s our absolute favorite fact about Maine!) it comes as no surprise that we’ve got so many beautiful road trips along the water. In fact, many people say that the portion of Route 1 that runs through Maine is the most gorgeous of the entire route from Florida to Canada.
But, when asked about our FAVORITE ocean view drive in Maine, we always say this one! Read on to find out what it’s called and where it will take you. And, click here for the map and directions!
The Bold Coast Scenic Byway lives up to the views it implies!
jimmykaw / Flickr The roughly 3-hour drive will take you from Millbridge, all the way up the coast to Eastport. While it’s fairly straightforward, there are lots of beautiful spots along the way that make this drive so much more than the destination.
The drive begins in Millbridge, which might still be socked in with fog if you set out early in the morning.
mere41782 / Flickr
While you’re waiting for it to lift, grab yourself some whoopie pies for the road.
management / TripAdvisor
For that, we recommend The Millbridge House Restaurant located at 20 Main Street in Millbridge.
The Millbridge House Restaurant / Facebook
From Millbridge, the Bold Coast Scenic Byway heads North on Route 1 along the Narraguagus River.
jimmykaw / Flickr
You’ll soon reach Cherryfield, home of Maine’s famous Blueberry Barrens.
kenai / Flickr
jimdollar / Flickr
This portion of Route 1 heads inland a bit, but the views remain quintessentially Maine.
nhoulihan / Flickr Cherryfield is also a good glimpse of what Maine once way, with more than 50 well-preserved homes on the historic register.
At this point, those looking for more adventure can take a detour on The Sunrise Trail, the 85-mile, off-road trail running along the Down East coast.
cnewtoncom / Flickr
Next, it’s on to Columbia Falls home to Wild Blueberry Land.
grassvalleylarry / Flickr For more on that unique Maine shop, check out this article.
The House on Destiny Bay
VW Beetle / Flickr
Next, Route 187 heads to Jonesport, where beaches like this await those looking to stretch their legs.
kim_carpenter_nj / Flickr
Jonesort’s small fishing village feel is what Maine (and this trip!) are all about.
rexblog / Flickr
Next, it’s back onto Route 1 and the 270-acre Roque Bluffs State along Englishman Bay.
VW Beetle / Flickr
Next, you’ll pass through quaint Machias where the first battle of the Revolutionary War took place.
jasonevines / Flickr
Those looking for sweeping views of the coast will love the next portion of this drive!
VW Beetle / Flickr
The Cutler Coast Preserve is located between Cutler and Lubec.
VW Beetle / Flickr This area offers about ten miles of hiking and even some camping spots. Those looking to explore will find not only beautiful coast, but also deep forests.
The drive heads toward Eastport on Route 189, going around Cobscook Bay.
binkley27 / Flickr This is another good area to stop of you’re in search of adventure. The 8,800-acre Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge offers fifty miles of trails for everything from walking to biking to cross-country skiing.
And, finally, you’ll reach the easternmost town in the United States - aptly named, Eastport.
dougtone / Flickr
This working waterfront and seaside town is the perfect way to end your journey!
kim_carpenter_nj / Flickr
Just make sure to see this famous roadside attraction before heading on to Canada or making the trip back.
dougtone / Flickr
As you enjoy the town, stop in at the Moose Island Bakery for something sweet.
James H / TripAdvisor They’re located at 75 Water Street in Eastport.
The best thing about this journey is that, you get to do it all again on the way back. Enjoy!
VW Beetle / Flickr
Click here for exact directions.
Google Maps
Since we’re talking about Maine’s beauty (really, when are we NOT?) we have to re-share one of our favorite recent articles. This one includes a stunning video of Acadia National Park, captured through images, timelapse and even drone. Enjoy!
jimmykaw / Flickr
The roughly 3-hour drive will take you from Millbridge, all the way up the coast to Eastport. While it’s fairly straightforward, there are lots of beautiful spots along the way that make this drive so much more than the destination.
mere41782 / Flickr
management / TripAdvisor
The Millbridge House Restaurant / Facebook
kenai / Flickr
jimdollar / Flickr
nhoulihan / Flickr
Cherryfield is also a good glimpse of what Maine once way, with more than 50 well-preserved homes on the historic register.
cnewtoncom / Flickr
grassvalleylarry / Flickr
For more on that unique Maine shop, check out this article.
VW Beetle / Flickr
kim_carpenter_nj / Flickr
rexblog / Flickr
jasonevines / Flickr
This area offers about ten miles of hiking and even some camping spots. Those looking to explore will find not only beautiful coast, but also deep forests.
binkley27 / Flickr
This is another good area to stop of you’re in search of adventure. The 8,800-acre Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge offers fifty miles of trails for everything from walking to biking to cross-country skiing.
dougtone / Flickr
James H / TripAdvisor
They’re located at 75 Water Street in Eastport.
Google Maps
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